Final answer:
The Oedipus complex, according to Freud's psychosexual stages of development, occurs in childhood during the phallic stage, around ages 3-6. a) In childhood
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Freud's theory of personality, the Oedipus complex takes place in childhood, specifically during his described phallic stage of psychosexual development, which typically occurs between the ages of 3-6 years. During this stage, a boy experiences strong desires toward his mother and views his father as a rival for her attention. This complex is resolved when the boy begins to identify with his father, relinquishing his earlier affections for his mother to avoid conflict and anxiety.
As Freud's theory posits, if the Oedipus complex is not properly resolved, it can lead to certain fixations which may affect the individual's personality into adulthood.